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A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the past weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility indicated that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a scenario would require not only the purchase of the land but significant capital investment,” the manager explained.

In a later announcement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be put down.

“A few individuals have shown interest in acquiring the facility and providing for the lions. Even though the window is short and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or humane option” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were flooded with messages from members of the public, requesting a second chance for the other big cats, while past workers expressed optimism that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to euthanise them.

The director noted that alongside the kind messages and expressions of sympathy, she had also received menacing and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we manage this heartbreaking situation.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The government department clarified that the determination to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer stated that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to ensure this is done appropriately,” the official said. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it rapidly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary repeatedly experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and changed ownership multiple times. In 2014, the government agency instructed the establishment to shut down until the enclosures were upgraded. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.